The Blue Mosque is an iconic monument located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is a major tourist attraction and is one of the most famous mosques in the world. It is also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, named after its founder Sultan Ahmed I. It was completed in 1616, and is considered to be one of the greatest masterpieces of Islamic architecture.
History of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I in 1609, and it took seven years to build. It was designed by the architect Mehmet Aga, who also designed other famous structures in Istanbul such as the Topkapi Palace and the Suleymaniye Mosque. The mosque is known for its blue interior and exterior tiles, which give it its name. The tiles were imported from Venice, and the blue color is believed to have been chosen by the Sultan himself.
Features of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is a massive structure, measuring 73 meters in length and 66 meters in width. It has six minarets and a large central dome, which is 43 meters in height. The interior of the mosque is decorated with Iznik tiles and calligraphy, and the walls are covered with intricate Islamic designs. The mosque also contains a number of tombs, including the tomb of Sultan Ahmed I.
Visiting the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is open to visitors every day, and there is no charge for admission. Visitors must dress modestly, and women must cover their heads. The mosque also offers guided tours in English, and visitors can purchase souvenirs from the gift shop.
Prayer Times
The Blue Mosque is a working mosque, and visitors should be aware of the prayer times when planning their visit. Prayer times vary depending on the time of year, but generally occur five times a day. Visitors should be respectful of prayer times and avoid entering the mosque during these times.
Facts about the Blue Mosque
- The Blue Mosque is the only mosque in the world with six minarets.
- The mosque is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Istanbul.
- The interior of the mosque is decorated with more than 20,000 Iznik tiles.
- The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I and completed in 1616.
- The mosque is open to visitors every day and there is no charge for admission.
The Blue Mosque is an iconic monument in Istanbul, and is one of the most famous mosques in the world. It is an impressive structure, both inside and out, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Istanbul. Visitors should be aware of the prayer times when planning their visit, and should dress modestly and respect the mosque’s religious significance.